Natural swimming hole
Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake
Lake · Washington
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
The National Park campground on Diablo Lake's shore, where the glacially turquoise reservoir is swimmable from the rocky shoreline. Paddlers and swimmers share the surreal blue-green water with Ross Lake's mountain backdrop.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 50-55 in summer |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | NPS pass or entry fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | daylight hours |
| Parking | campground lot |
| Amenities | vault toilet, campground, boat launch |
| County | Whatcom County |
| Nearest town | Newhalem |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; very cold glacial water; boat traffic |
Map
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake?
Yes — Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake is listed as a natural swimming spot in Washington. Reported water temperature: 50-55 in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; very cold glacial water; boat traffic. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake require reservations?
No reservations are required at Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake?
Reported fee info: NPS pass or entry fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Colonial Creek Campground, Diablo Lake?
The best season is typically July-September.